City of London Sinfonia : Resonate
Composer : Hannah Kendall
Biography : British composer Hannah Kendall is acclaimed for her intricate, narrative-driven music that bridges musical cultures while questioning tradition. Her works contrast fine detail with visceral intensity, often subverting audience expectations of dynamics and movement. Recent compositions explore connected but unharmonised histories, incorporating unconventional instruments that exist outside of the concert hall to create striking juxtapositions. Her Tuxedo series is named after an artwork by American artist Jean-Michel Basquiat. Recognized globally, her work has been performed by major orchestras and featured in prestigious festivals. She has received accolades including the Hindemith Prize and the Ivor Novello Award.
Chosen Work Summary : In under six minutes, Tuxedo: Vasco ‘de’ Gama comments on exploration and the seeds of globalisation and multiculturalism. The piece reflects contemporary society, particularly the Summer of 2020 when it was written, and provides a ‘way in’ for new classical music audiences.
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